According to an article out of Sweden, Flames defender Staffan Kronwall is hoping to be released from his NHL contract so he can return home. Kronwall has one more year left on his deal set to pay him $500,000. From the (translated) piece:

I said that I want to leave and play in Sweden or elsewhere in Europe...Not that I'm uncomfortable in any way with the town and the club, I liked it, but because I want to get a bit closer to my family.

If the Flames choose to release Kronwall, his departure won't have any positive effect on their current cap woes. Kronwall ended the year in the AHL last season, meaning his salary does not currently count against the Flames cap. In addition, the 27 year old was slated to play in Abbotsford for majority of the season. On the prospect development side, however, his leaving would mean one less obstacle between Matt Pelech and the NHL.

Kronwall played 66 games in the NHL over his career, scoring one goal and three assists.